CHICAGO – President Elect Barack Obama said yesterday that he will resign from the Senate, effective Sunday.

The move was expected. Obama won the presidency last week over Republican John McCain and will be sworn in on January 20.

Under state law, Democratic Governor Rod Blagojevich will name Obama's replacement for the remaining two years of his six-year term.

Blagojevich had said he expected to make a decision by year end, and had ruled out appointing himself. Obama, a Democrat, is the only black member of the 100-seat Senate.

Congress is scheduled to meet in a special session next week.

Among those being considered to replace Obama is Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr., a member of the House of Representatives who is the son of civil rights leader the Rev Jesse Jackson. (AP)